Chapter 661: The Case (I)
The carriage came to a halt in front of the Taiping Inn branch by Penglai Pool. Normally, this would not draw much attention, but the circumstances were different now. The Taiping Inn had closed its doors to outsiders, and Daoist personnel were prohibited from using Western-style carriages. Under such conditions, this particular carriage stood out too much.
Two Spirit Guards on duty immediately stepped forward, ready to question the visitors.
That was when Qi Xuansu stepped out of the carriage and gestured for the guards to stand down.
The two guards recognized this young man, who was closely associated with the leader of the Golden Tower Council's delegation, so they quickly saluted him. “Superintendent Qi.”
Qi Xuansu ordered, “This is Princess Chiying, a guest of Acting Deputy Hall Master Li. Please report her arrival to him.”
The two Spirit Guards froze briefly, puzzled. They knew a bit about the higher-ups. For instance, Superintendent Qi had close ties with Deputy Hall Master Zhang and was rumored to be riding on her coattails. He was also a former classmate of Deputy Palace Master Yao. Zhang Yuelu and Yao Pei seemed to get along on the surface, perhaps due to political pressure, but they certainly were not close like sisters. After all, two tigers could not share one mountain—unless they were mated.
Then there was Acting Deputy Hall Master Li, who was courteous to everyone yet distant from all, including Qi Xuansu. This had everything to do with the power struggle among the three sects.
So, when had Qi Xuansu managed to cozy up to Acting Deputy Hall Master Li as well? This man was truly something. While most would struggle to ride two boats, he seemed to be sailing three! With these thoughts swirling, the two Spirit Guards quickly went inside to inform Li Changge.
Qi Xuansu led the pair into the main hall of the Taiping Inn, where the attendants promptly served tea.
A short while later, it was not Li Changge who appeared, but Yao Pei.
“Tian Yuan, when did you grow so close to the royal family? Prince Jin invited you for a drink, but you came back in a princess’s carriage,” Yao Pei said expressionlessly.